The IPL 2025 mega auction is just around the corner, anticipated to take place between December 2024 and January 2025. This highly awaited event will see all franchises releasing most of their players, with only a limited number of retentions allowed. In the previous mega auction of 2022, franchises were permitted to retain only four players. Although there are speculations that the number of retentions could be increased this year, no official confirmation has been made yet.

BCCI officials are scheduled to meet with franchise owners at the end of this month to finalize the retention rules, salary cap, and overall purse for the mega auction. 

This blog will provide a comprehensive roundup of the latest rumors, updates, and reports related to the IPL 2025 retention. Stay tuned to this page for regular updates and get all the latest information right at your fingertips.

August 1, 2024

12:00 AM IST: Likely IPL 2025 Retention rules discussed in IPL team owners' meeting with BCCI

Here are the major talking points from the meeting:

• CSK, MI, KKR, GT, SRH, and RR Don’t Want Big Mega Auctions

• Franchises Prefer Maximum of 6-8 Retentions

• Likely Same Number of Retentions as Last Time

• Three Capped Players and One RTM

• Retention of Uncapped Players Under Consideration

• Number of Uncapped Players That Can Be Retained to Be Decided Later

• BCCI Will Take Feedback from Owners and Formulate the Final Regulations

July 31, 2024

06:30 PM IST: BCCI and IPL Franchises to Consider Strict Actions Against Defaulting Foreign Players in Key Meeting

The BCCI and IPL franchise owners are set to discuss the issue of foreign players defaulting on their commitments, with concerns raised over players like Jason Roy and Alex Hales withdrawing from the IPL due to low bids. Franchises have urged the BCCI to take corrective measures, including potential bans for unreliable players, as these withdrawals disrupt detailed auction planning.

The issue of the ECB recalling players for international matches during the IPL play-offs, causing teams to miss key players, will also be addressed. The ECB CEO defended their record of supporting players in global tournaments but emphasized the importance of player availability for England's matches.

Additionally, concerns over foreign players bypassing the mega-auction for higher bids in the mini-auction will be discussed. Franchises seek discretionary power over appraisals and incremental performance pay. The meeting will be limited to team owners, with some requesting video link participation.

06:00 PM IST: Separate retention slots for uncapped players as part of new retention rules

The BCCI may allow IPL franchises to retain uncapped players under a separate slot ahead of the 2025 mega auction, potentially changing the current retention policy. Traditionally, teams could retain up to four players, including a maximum of two uncapped players. However, as reported by The Times of India, franchises might persuade the BCCI to introduce separate retention slots specifically for uncapped players, allowing them to retain at least two from their 2024 squads.

This move aims to protect the investment franchises have made in developing these players.

A source privy to the information revealed to TOI that franchises are pushing for the ability to retain two to three uncapped players under an additional slot. Ahead of the mega auction, the franchises are set to meet with the BCCI to discuss retention policies, the interval between mega auctions, and the potential reactivation of the Right To Match card. Additionally, the BCCI is considering increasing the salary cap from INR 90Cr to INR 130-140Cr.

July 30, 2024

01:00 PM IST: RCB likely to release Glenn Maxwell

It has come to light that Australia all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has unfollowed RCB on Instagram, which has led fans to think that he is very close to exiting the franchise ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. Retention list of all franchises will be announced soon and it looks unlikely that RCB would want to retain Maxwell.

Maxwell unfollowed RCB 🧐#IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/HVkUaHViuB

— CricXtasy (@CricXtasy) July 30, 2024

The all-rounder had a forgettable outing in IPL 2024 where he could score on 52 runs in 10 innings. Although he had been one of the best performers for RCB prior to the 2024 season, the emergence of a similar player like Will Jacks could promt RCB to retain the 25-year-old ahead of Maxwell.

July 29, 2024

8:30 PM IST: MS Dhoni to continue as a player for CSK in IPL 2025?

According to Cricbuzz, the future of MS Dhoni's association with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) hinges on the number of player retentions allowed in the upcoming IPL season. Dhoni, a cornerstone of CSK since its inception in 2008, is in discussions with N Srinivasan regarding his continued role. If the IPL permits five or six retentions, Dhoni is likely to remain as a player. However, with fewer retentions, he may transition to a mentor role, maintaining his significant influence from the dugout rather than on the field.

Another season for the fans? #msdhoni #ipl2025 pic.twitter.com/PdOXM3KwIq

— CricXtasy (@CricXtasy) July 29, 2024

Currently, the players expected to be retained by CSK include skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad, Ravindra Jadeja, Matheesha Pathirana, and Shivam Dube. The final decision will be influenced by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)'s upcoming meeting with IPL team owners in Mumbai on July 31. Rupa Gurunath, N Srinivasan's daughter, will represent CSK at this crucial meeting, where the number of retentions will be determined. The outcome will play a pivotal role in defining Dhoni's future with CSK, whether as a player or in a strategic mentoring capacity.

July 26, 2024

06:00 PM IST: Punjab Kings Likely to appoint Wasim Jaffer as head coach

As per a News18 report, Punjab Kings are likely to appoint Wasim Jaffer as their head coach for the IPL 2025 season. Earlier, it was reported that PBKS management wasn't happy with Trevor Bayliss' work and hence they were looking for an Indian coach for the upcoming season.

Now it looks like Jaffer has a very good chance to become the head coach as he has already worked with the franchise twice in different coaching roles.

July 25, 2024

04:00 PM IST: Salary Purse for IPL franchises likely to be increased to INR 140 crores

According to a report in the Times of India, the BCCI is looking to increase the salary purse for IPL 2025 to INR 130-140 crores for each franchise. The report further claims that there will be 84 matches in IPL 2025 and 2026 edition while the IPL 2027 season is set to have 94 matches.

So, the players will ask for more salary as there will be more matches with little gap between them. It is only fair to increase the purse value for this reason.

July 24, 2024

06:00 PM IST: Five-year mega auction cycle and 4-6 retentions demanded by IPL franchises

As per an ESPN Cricinfo report, IPL franchises have conveyed three major demands to the IPL officials ahead of their meeting that is set to take place anytime next week. 

One of those demands is a five-year mega auction cycle instead of the current three-year version. That will allow the franchises to hold on to the players they have developed for a longer period and makes it fair for them as they work pretty hard on developing the players. 

Second demand is that the franchises should be allowed at least 4-6 retentions ahead of every mega auction. It will help the teams in retaining their core group of players.

Third demand is a bit outrageous as it conveys allowing eight RTMs to each team instead of retentions. The franchise owner has conveyed that it allows the player to get retained at a fair market value as often players might be dissatisfied with retention price.

04:05 PM IST: Punjab Kings on the look out for an Indian Coach

According to Cricbuzz, Punjab Kings are all set to terminate Trevor Bayliss contract as head coach heading into the IPL 2025 season. The reason behind that is the management's interest in hiring an Indian coach for this season after watching the success of other teams with Indian coaches at the helm.

Sanjay Bangar, former PBKS head coach and current director of cricket development, is a potential candidate for this role. Despite having no complaints about Bayliss's coaching style, the board can't look past his recent T20 record, which has been poor. PBKS finished eighth and ninth in the last two seasons. The franchise is broadening its search ahead of the mega-auction.

REPORTS 🚨

Trevor Bayliss' contract is unlikely to be renewed by Punjab Kings (via Cricbuzz).#IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/t3sTshvUEa

— CricXtasy (@CricXtasy) July 24, 2024

July 23, 2024

06:30 PM IST: Yuvraj Singh Set to Join Gujarat Titans for IPL 2025; Ashish Nehra likely to leave

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh is in discussions to join the Gujarat Titans (GT) coaching setup ahead of the IPL 2025 season, a News18 report claims. This development comes amidst reports that current head coach Ashish Nehra and Director of Cricket Vikram Solanki are likely to leave the franchise.

Known for his aggressive batting and leadership skills, Yuvraj's presence could provide a new direction and invigorate the team's approach.

“A lot of changes are on the cards. Ashish Nehra and Vikram Solanki are highly likely to move on and discussions around Yuvraj Singh have already begun. Nothing is finalised right now but there could be some major changes in the coaching staff of the Gujarat Titans,” a source close to the developments told News18.

Nehra and Solanki have been pivotal to the Titans' success since their inception in 2022. Under their guidance, GT won the IPL title in their debut season and reached the finals in 2023. However, their potential departure signals the end of an era and the beginning of a significant transition for the franchise.

Adding to the coaching shuffle, Gary Kirsten, who served as the team's mentor, has already exited the franchise to take on a full-time role with the Pakistan cricket team.

In addition to Nehra and Solanki, other coaches such as Aashish Kapoor, Naeem Amin, Narender Negi, and Mithun Manhas might also seek opportunities elsewhere. This potential exodus indicates a comprehensive restructuring of the coaching and support staff, aiming to rebuild the team's core strength.

06:00 PM IST: SRH set to release talented Indian pacer Umran Malik

Reports indicate that the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) are planning to release their star bowler Umran Malik. The 24-year-old, who made his debut for SRH in 2021 and quickly gained attention for his exceptional speed, is now poised for a potential move to another franchise.

Umran Malik was a standout performer when he first appeared for SRH in 2021. His ability to consistently bowl over 140 km/h caught the eye of cricket enthusiasts and experts alike. Following his impressive debut, SRH retained Malik for ₹4 crores in the 2022 season, grooming him as a future star of their bowling lineup.

The 2022 season was a breakthrough year for Malik, as he took 22 wickets in 14 matches, earning accolades for his raw talent and potential. However, his performance saw a notable decline in subsequent seasons. By 2024, Malik had played only one game, largely due to issues with his line and length, and an economy rate that prompted the franchise to seek alternatives.

The decision to release Umran Malik is seen as a strategic move by SRH to free up ₹4 crores ahead of the IPL 2025 auction. This decision comes on the back of Malik's diminishing returns over the last two seasons, where he featured in just nine games, taking limited wickets and struggling with consistency.

Releasing Malik not only provides SRH with additional funds but also potentially allows the team to explore more reliable options for their bowling attack. The release aligns with reports that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) might increase the salary cap for IPL 2025 from ₹90 crores to ₹120 crores, giving teams more flexibility in building their squads.

Despite his recent struggles, Malik remains a coveted player, with several teams reportedly interested in acquiring his services for IPL 2025. News24 Sports highlighted that teams such as the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have shown keen interest in the Jammu-Express.

A move to a new team could provide Malik with the fresh start he needs. Franchises with a strong support system and experienced coaching staff might help him regain his form and confidence. Playing more regularly and under different management could be crucial for Malik to re-establish himself as one of the premier fast bowlers in the league.

Future Prospects for Umran Malik

For Malik, a change of scenery could be the catalyst needed to revive his career. His potential to bowl at high speeds remains an asset that many teams are willing to invest in. The key will be finding a team that can offer him the right guidance and opportunities to play consistently.

With the IPL 2025 auction on the horizon and the potential increase in the salary cap, teams will be looking to balance their squads with a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents. Malik, with his speed and past performances, fits the bill for teams looking to bolster their pace attack.

10:00 AM IST: Rahul Dravid likely to return to Rajasthan Royals as Head Coach

According to the Times of India, Rahul Dravid is all set to be announced as the head coach of Rajasthan Royals heading into the IPL 2025 season. This is a big development considering Dravid's previous association with the Royals.

He has already led the Royals before as a player. As a captain he led them into the playoffs in IPL 2013 and also took them in the Champions League T20 final. He joined them as their mentor later on and served them for two seasons, before joining India U19 as coach.

Dravid helped them win the U19 World Cup and then joined the senior India men's side as head coach in 2021. Dravid has signed off on a high after helping them win the 2024 T20 World Cup and now he will be eager to lead the Rajasthan Royals to glory.

"Talks are going on between RR and Dravid, an announcement in his regard is round the corner," TOI quoted a source as saying

Read more here.

09:30 AM IST: CVC Capital in talks with Adani Group and Torrent Group to buy controlling stakes in Gujarat Titans

Private equity firm CVC Capital Partners is reportedly in discussions to sell a controlling stake in the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Gujarat Titans. According to The Economic Times, business conglomerates Adani Group and Torrent Group are actively bidding for ownership of the team.

While CVC Capital would relinquish control under the potential deal, it is keen to remain as a minority shareholder. However, any transaction involving the Titans will be on hold until 2025, due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India's (BCCI) lock-in period that prevents new teams from selling stakes until then.

Founded in 2021, the Gujarat Titans could be valued between US$1 billion and US$1.5 billion, according to ET. This marks a significant return for CVC, which acquired the franchise for I₹5,625 crore (US$745 million) in 2021. Based in Luxembourg, CVC currently manages €193 billion (US$210 billion) in assets globally, with a sports investment portfolio that includes LaLiga, Ligue 1, the Women's Tennis Association (WTA), and rugby's Six Nations.

In 2021, Adani and Torrent both placed bids for the Titans, offering I₹5,100 crore (US$610 million) and I₹4,653 crore (US$556 million) respectively, but fell short of CVC's winning bid. Since then, Adani has expanded its cricket portfolio, owning the Gulf Giants in the International League T20 and securing the Ahmedabad franchise in the Women's Premier League (WPL) for I₹1,289 crore (US$158 million).

The IPL continues to be a lucrative investment, valued at US$16.4 billion by Houlihan Lokey's 2024 IPL Valuation Study. For Adani and Torrent, acquiring an IPL team offers substantial opportunities for brand enhancement and business growth.

For CVC, the prospect of doubling its investment in the Titans is enticing. The firm may already be eyeing its next venture, with reports suggesting talks with The Big 12 college sports conference over a potential investment between US$800 million and US$1 billion.

July 22, 2024

22:30 IST: Will Jacks or Cameron Green: Who is going to be retained by RCB?

It's a different issue that RCB need to find a captain and a wicket-keeper as Faf du Plessis is already 40 years old and Dinesh Karthik has also retired after last season. But they have a bigger headache to take care of regarding the retention of their overseas players.

Virat Kohli, Rajat Patidar, and Mohammed Siraj are probably going to be their three Indian retentions. If they are looking to retain two overseas players, Virat Kohli and Rajat Patidar are expected to be the Indian retentions. If BCCI allows more than four retentions this time, then RCB will probably have more room to retain more than just a couple of overseas players. However, if they stick with the usual 3+1 retention rule, RCB will need to choose between retaining any two overseas players among Glenn Maxwell, Will Jacks or Cameron Green.

RCB acquired Green last season in a blockbuster trade of INR 17.5 crores. Although he struggled in the first half of IPL 2024, he really came through with his performances in the second half. Overall, Green finished with 255 runs at a strike-rate of 143.26 and also claimed 10 wickets. RCB will surely look to retain him considering the high ceiling he offers as a player. Now they will need to choose between retaining Maxwell and Jacks if the usual retention rule is in place.

Also Read: Two major India stars to leave Mumbai Indians ahead of IPL 2025: Reports

Maxwell was serving RCB well since joining them in 2021, amassing 513, 301, and 400 runs in IPL 2021, 2022, and 2023 respectively. But everything came crashing down for him last season as he accumulated a mere 52 runs in 10 matches. He struggled to score throughout the season and looked like a pale shadow of the player he was.

Will Jacks got the opportunity to play instead of Maxwell midway through the season and he grabbed it with both hands as he amassed 230 runs at an astonishing strike rate of 175.57. He scored a hundred and a fifty as well, which summed up his ability to play big knocks like Maxwell. He is also a decent off-spinner, which makes him quite similar in attributes to the Australian.

Now it's up to RCB to decide who they want to retain. Is it going to be Maxwell, who served them well for three seasons? Are they willing to look past his failures last season and give him another chance? Would they rather go for Jacks, who proved his mettle with his performances, and is also only 25 years old - 10 years younger than Maxwell.

RCB will surely benefit from retaining Jacks as they can retain him as a third or fourth retention pick. Maxwell might not agree to that as he was bought for INR 14.25 crore. Third or fourth retention gets INR 8 and 6 crores respectively. Kohli and Green will be RCB's first two retention picks in all probability. As it stands, RCB have an interesting decision to make, but Jacks has a better chance of getting retained than Maxwell.

08:15 PM IST: What could be Suryakumar Yadav's destination in IPL 2025?

Considering Suryakumar Yadav leaves Mumbai Indians, three teams in particular will be desperate to get him on board as captain before IPL 2025 mega auction.

First is obviously RCB, who will probably bid adieu to Faf du Plessis as he is already 40 years old now. The second team is Lucknow Super Giants, who would be in dire need of a captain and a world-class Indian top-order batter if they decide to release KL Rahul. Read this report to know more about the third team and for detailed analysis on why they might opt to acquire Suryakumar's services.

08:00 PM IST: Should Rohit Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav leave Mumbai Indians?

Loyalty or Personal gain? What should Rohit and Surya choose?

Our writer, Darpan Jain, states, "Loyalty works from both ends. If Rohit and Suryakumar stay back at Mumbai Indians, the loyalty will be one-sided, from their end only. That Hardik trade showed the true face of franchise cricket, where owners will do anything to win."

Read his complete report, where he has dissected the situation Mumbai Indians are in involving the retention  of these two players.

Apart from this, a Dainik Jagran report has also raised speculations about their departures from the franchise.

July 21, 2024

6:00 PM: Lucknow Super Giants looking to release KL Rahul due to low strike-rate and bad captaincy record

New reports have surfaced stating reasons that might force LSG to release KL Rahul heading into the IPL 2025 mega auction.

According to Khel Now, LSG is considering to release Rahul mainly due to his low strike-rate.

“The franchise isn’t very happy with KL Rahul’s approach and strike rate in T20 cricket and they’re looking for more T20 specialists to add in the side,” a source was quoted as saying by Khel Now.

Rahul's captaincy track record is apparently another reason why LSG is interested in looking past him heading into IPL 2025. But the source also mentioned that LSG might use their RTM on Rahul in the auction, if needed.

“The franchise will not retain KL Rahul ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction, but might use RTM card on him if needed.”

“KL Rahul has captained for a long time (seven seasons) in the IPL for two teams (Punjab Kings and Lucknow Super Giants) from 2018, but is yet to win the title as captain. His track record isn’t that good as captain and the franchise may look for new captaincy options,” the source added.

LSG had bought Rahul from Punjab Kings ahead of IPL 2022 for a sum of INR 17 crores. 

01:04 PM IST: KL Rahul Likely to become RCB Captain

According to a Dainik Jagran report, KL Rahul is likely to end his three-year association with the Lucknow Super Giants and that could clear the way for RCB to rope him in as their new captain.

The relationship between Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain KL Rahul and team owner Sanjeev Goenka has come under scrutiny. This follows a viral video showing Goenka in a heated discussion with Rahul after LSG's loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad in an IPL 2024 match in Lucknow.

The video fueled rumours of a rift between Rahul and Goenka, raising concerns about Rahul's future with LSG. However, Goenka swiftly addressed these speculations by hosting Rahul for dinner at his Delhi home, culminating in a warm embrace and smiles, suggesting harmony within the team.

Thoughts, RCB fans?#KLRahul #RCB #IPL2025 pic.twitter.com/Y0cs5FmclW

— CricXtasy (@CricXtasy) July 21, 2024

LSG assistant coach Lance Klusener also downplayed the incident, emphasizing the importance of robust discussions for team improvement. Klusener stated, "I don't see any problem with some robust discussion between two cricket lovers. So for us, I guess it's just a storm in a teacup. We love a robust discussion. I think that's how teams get better. So, it's not a big thing for us."

Despite these reassurances, the incident has led to speculation about Rahul's future. Reports suggest he might return to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for the 2025 IPL season. RCB is reportedly seeking a new captain, with current skipper Faf du Plessis, 40, nearing the end of his career. 

Rahul, who started his IPL career with RCB in 2013 and was part of their 2016 squad that reached the final, is seen as a viable long-term option. His potential return to RCB as part of IPL 2025 retention and release process has sparked excitement among fans, given his experience and leadership qualities.

12: 30 PM IST: Mumbai Indians face issues with retaining quartet of Rohit, hardik, Suryakumar and Bumrah

The Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) are keenly watching the retention strategies of Mumbai Indians (MI), who face tough decisions regarding their star players. 

Rohit Sharma, who led India to victory in the T20 World Cup, and Suryakumar Yadav, the new Indian T20I captain, are central to MI's retention plans. Rohit saw his leadership role shift last December when MI appointed Hardik Pandya as his successor. This move reportedly caused friction within the team, though Rohit publicly supported Hardik's all-round performance during the T20 World Cup, which won over the fans.

Also Read: Former India batter thinks Hardik Pandya was 'entitled to the captaincy

Despite this public camaraderie, internal dynamics remain tense. Hardik, who moved to MI after a lucrative deal from Gujarat Titans, now faces uncertainty with Suryakumar's rise. Suryakumar, backed by head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, has taken over India's T20I captaincy, sidelining Hardik. Reports suggest that Hardik lost a 'no confidence' vote among Indian players, who preferred Suryakumar's leadership.

MI's decision on retaining Hardik, Rohit, or Suryakumar will have significant implications. If the IPL Governing Council restricts franchises to four retentions, including one overseas player, MI will have to make strategic choices among their Indian stars. This opens opportunities for other franchises.

RCB and LSG are particularly interested in these developments. RCB, seeking a long-term replacement for Faf du Plessis, could benefit from Rahul's potential move, especially if MI decides to part with Rohit or Hardik. LSG is also monitoring the situation, having dealt with its own internal issues.

MI’s handling of their star players, particularly Rohit and Suryakumar, will be crucial. Suryakumar, who reportedly sided with Rohit during internal conflicts, might seek leadership opportunities if MI doesn't make a compelling offer. Additionally, Jasprit Bumrah, who enjoys leadership roles, adds another retention headache to MI's complex decisions.

So, who will end up in MI's final IPL 2025 retention list? It remains a tough question.

12:15 PM IST: Rishabh Pant to stay with Delhi Capitals: Recent Reports quash his move to CSK

Contrary to Saturday’s swirling rumors, Rishabh Pant is set to stay with Delhi Capitals (DC) ahead of the IPL 2025 mega auction. An IANS report has firmly debunked the buzz about Pant’s potential move to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), orchestrated by whispers of his bond with MS Dhoni.

From the early hours of Saturday, the cricketing grapevine buzzed with reports that Pant might be donning CSK's yellow next season. The speculation was fueled by Pant’s well-known camaraderie with Dhoni, a relationship that has been the subject of much adulation and media fascination.

Also Read: Reports: Rishabh Pant to stay in Delhi Capitals for IPL 2025; Check all 4 retentions

Yet, insiders have exclusively informed IANS that Pant is not going anywhere. DC’s management plans to retain him alongside pivotal players Axar Patel and Kuldeep Yadav. This dynamic trio recently tasted international glory, helping India clinch the Men’s T20 World Cup in Barbados on June 29.

Additionally, either Tristan Stubbs or Jake Fraser McGurk is going to be their overseas retention.

Delhi Capitals' likely retentions ahead of IPL 2025 mega auction.#DelhiCapitals pic.twitter.com/lXCo1BepT8

— CricXtasy (@CricXtasy) July 20, 2024

Pant's journey with DC began in 2016, when he was snapped up after his scintillating 111 off 96 balls against Namibia in the U19 World Cup quarterfinals. Since then, Pant has grown into the heartbeat of DC, amassing 3284 runs in 111 matches with a formidable strike rate of 148.93. His batting prowess, highlighted by a century and 18 fifties, has endeared him to fans and critics alike.

As captain, Pant led DC in 2021, 2022, and 2024, demonstrating not just his batting might but also his sharp cricketing mind. His wicketkeeping stats are equally impressive, with 75 catches and 38 stumpings to his name. Despite Ricky Ponting's departure from the head coach role, DC sees Pant as the linchpin of their strategy moving forward.

DC’s commitment to Pant extends beyond his on-field exploits. His retention symbolizes stability and ambition as the franchise navigates the post-Ponting era. While media outlets speculated about his move, the reality paints a picture of continuity and trust in Pant’s leadership and talent.